Jackopierce - Finest Hour (1996)

After Jackopierce's major-label debut stiffed, the duo refashioned their sound for their second A&M effort, Finest Hour. The primary change in their sound is the support of a full four-piece rock & roll band, which gives the music more texture and prominent back beat. However, the change isn't necessarily for the best -- part of Jackopierce's charm is their way with intimate, introspective acoustic numbers. Still, they haven't lost their knack for crafting catchy folk-rock hooks, even if they have lost their low-key charm. That means even if Finest Hour takes Jackopierce away from their strengths, it is nevertheless is a breezy, ingratiating collection of melodic, jangly riffs and infectious, sing-along songs that proves the band could make headway in the mainstream.